Northamptonshire have announced the signing of Ben Curran, brother of England internationals Sam and Tom, on a two-year contract.

Batsman Curran, 22, has been playing for the club’s second XI but made his first-team debut in the Steelbacks’ Vitality Blast match against Derbyshire last week.

His late father was former Northants captain Kevin Curran and Ben is the middle brother to Tom and Sam, who have represented England in both red and white-ball cricket.

Curran’s performances have prompted the club to offer him a two-year deal, starting next season, though he will continue playing for Northants for the remainder of this campaign.

The left-hander said: “I’m delighted to have signed for Northants. The fact that my Dad played here too it makes it even more special to be able to represent this county.

“I hope that I can contribute in all three formats over the next few years and fingers crossed we can have a strong end to the season in both the Blast and the County Championship.”

Curran has been playing for the MCC Young Cricketers since 2015, experience that Northants head coach David Ripley says will prove invaluable.

He is convinced Curran has what it takes to thrive at the club, and said: “Ben has scored heavily in all formats for us in the 2’s as well as continuing to churn out runs for the MCCYC’s.

“He deserves an opportunity and we look forward to working with him over the next two seasons. He has a lot of competitive spirit and I know he will make the most of his chance.”